Best Collection Of 89+ Beautiful White House China State Dining Room Most Outstanding In 2023

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The White House has served as the home of US presidents since 1800, and the State Dining Room has hosted numerous historic gatherings and international dignitaries. This grand room, located on the State Floor of the White House, is known for its elegant design and impressive collection of china, featuring pieces from past presidents and first ladies. The State Dining Room continues to serve as the centerpiece of the White House's official entertaining, hosting state dinners, receptions, and other important events. Let's take a closer look at the White House China State Dining Room and discover the history and significance behind this iconic space.

Introduction to the White House China State Dining Room

The State Dining Room in the White House has played host to some of the most important events in American history, from official state dinners to private gatherings of presidents and their families. And at the center of these occasions is the stunning White House China, carefully curated and displayed in the State Dining Room for all to admire. Let's take a closer look at the top 10 pieces of White House China in this iconic room.

White House China State Dining Room

The History of White House China

The tradition of using fine china for official state dinners began with President George Washington, who ordered a set of white and gold china from China. However, it wasn't until First Lady Dolley Madison that the White House began to use a specific set of china for state occasions. Since then, each president and first lady have added their own unique touch to the collection, resulting in a diverse and impressive display.

White House China

The State Dining Room

The State Dining Room is located on the first floor of the White House and is the largest of the formal state rooms. It is used for a variety of events, including state dinners, receptions, and ceremonies. The room is also used for smaller, more intimate dinners and gatherings, making it a versatile and important space in the White House.

State Dining Room

Presidential China

The White House China displayed in the State Dining Room represents the personal tastes and preferences of each president and first lady. From the elaborate designs of the Kennedy China to the simple elegance of the Reagan China, each set tells a unique story and adds to the rich history of the White House.

Presidential China

State Dinners

State dinners are one of the most highly anticipated events in the White House, and the State Dining Room is the perfect setting for these grand affairs. The room is transformed into an elegant and formal setting, with the exquisite White House China on display for all to see. From the menu to the table settings, every detail is carefully planned and executed to create a memorable and distinguished evening.

State Dinner

Official Dinners

In addition to state dinners, the State Dining Room also hosts official dinners for foreign dignitaries, ambassadors, and other guests of honor. These dinners are typically smaller and more intimate, but still require the use of the White House China to add a touch of elegance and tradition to the event.

Official Dinner

Presidential Dinners

The State Dining Room is also used for private presidential dinners, where the president can entertain guests in a more relaxed and personal setting. These dinners often feature a mix of official and personal guests, and the White House China is used to create a sense of formality and importance to the occasion.

Presidential Dinner

The China Collection

The White House China collection in the State Dining Room is a sight to behold. It includes pieces from different eras, styles, and presidents, but all come together to create a cohesive and impressive display. The collection is constantly evolving and growing, with each new administration adding their own unique touch to the mix.

China Collection

Presidential Tableware

The White House China is not just for show - it is also used for practical purposes during state dinners and other events. The tableware includes plates, bowls, and serving dishes, all specifically designed and selected for their use in the State Dining Room. Each piece is carefully crafted and adds to the elegance and grandeur of the room.

Presidential Tableware

State Dinner Service

The State Dinner Service is a special set of china used specifically for state dinners. It includes a main course plate, a dessert plate, and a bread and butter plate, all adorned with unique designs and patterns. This set is used for the main course of the dinner and is an important part of the overall dining experience.

State Dinner Service

The History of the White House China State Dining Room

White House China State Dining Room

The Early Years

White House China State Dining Room The White House China State Dining Room has a rich history that dates back to the early years of the United States. The room was originally used as a reception area for guests and was not designated as a dining room until 1807 when President Thomas Jefferson added a large table to the space. However, it wasn't until 1825, during the presidency of John Quincy Adams, that the room was officially named the "State Dining Room."

The Renovation by President Theodore Roosevelt

White House China State Dining Room In 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt hired renowned architect Charles Follen McKim to completely renovate the White House, including the State Dining Room. The room was enlarged and given a more formal and elegant design, with a new coffered ceiling and ornate plasterwork. President Roosevelt also commissioned the famous "Appomattox" painting by Tompkins Harrison Matteson, which still hangs in the room today.

Preservation and Additions

White House China State Dining Room Throughout the years, various presidents have made changes to the White House China State Dining Room, but efforts have always been made to preserve its historic charm. In 1961, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy oversaw a major restoration of the room and added a new carpet featuring a design of the American eagle. In 1983, First Lady Nancy Reagan added a new set of china, featuring a gold rim and the presidential seal, to be used for state dinners.

The Modern State Dining Room

White House China State Dining Room Today, the White House China State Dining Room remains a grand and elegant space for hosting important guests and events. The room features a large mahogany table that can seat up to 140 guests, as well as portraits of former presidents and first ladies. It also serves as a showcase for the beautiful collection of presidential china that has been used throughout the years. Overall, the White House China State Dining Room is not only a symbol of the rich history and traditions of the United States, but also a testament to the importance of elegant and functional design in the world of politics and diplomacy. With its impressive architecture and stunning collection of china and artwork, it continues to be a highlight of any tour of the White House and a fitting setting for important diplomatic events.

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